Photographers have much to celebrate here in Canada. We bask in the beauty of four distinctive seasons, each with different photographic opportunities. Even with winter’s short days, treacherous ice and uncomfortable temperatures, Canada remains a wonderland, especially for nature photographers.
Bohemian Waxwing – a berry and fruit specialist, when they come down from the boreal forest into Southern Canada they are attracted to berry crops like those of ornamental trees including crab apple and juniper.
While many birds leave Canada for warmer territories, several northern birds migrate to spend the winter in the southern parts of our county. However, each winter is a little different. Some winters might have lots of Bohemian Waxwings or Evening Grosbeaks, while owls might be scarce. Other years, we might see lots of Common Redpolls or White-winged Crossbills with other finches being completely absent.
When an influx of a species moves into an area, it is called an irruption. This phenomenon has very little to do with cold conditions. Some of these hardy birds can behave normally, even during extended periods of extreme sub-zero temperatures. Their survival depends mainly on the availability of natural food like berries, seeds, nuts and fruit. Their migration pattern is also affected by the success of their most recent breeding season. When food sources crash shortly after young birds fledge, entire populations tend to migrate south in search of food.
Female Pine Grosbeak – our largest finch, this attractive species enjoys feeding on various tree seeds including those of carb apple. It’s not unusual to see them twist and turn on their perch to get at their preferred food.
This winter in Eastern Ontario, we have already seen large flocks of attractive birds like Bohemian Waxwing and Common Redpoll. Other birds present in smaller numbers include Pine Grosbeak and Evening Grosbeak.
Female Common Redpoll – This winter, huge flocks have come into Eastern Ontario mainly feeding on grass seeds. As snow continues to cover the local environment, expect to see redpolls coming to bird feeding stations.
Winter is a wonderful time to experience the great outdoors. It’s no wonder that chasing winter photo opportunities has become a great Canadian pastime.
© Tony Beck 2021
About Tony Beck
Tony Beck is an award winning, Nikon Ambassador, freelance photographer based in Ottawa. He teaches birdwatching and nature photography courses. Follow Tony’s adventures at www.AlwaysAnAdventure.ca
